Charmène M. Vega, PhD (Hon.), M.S., is a distinguished fourth-generation nutritionist, educator, and holistic health advocate dedicated over 35 years to the unique education sector. Known for her empowering teaching style, Charmène uniquely breaks down complex concepts into relatable everyday analogies, helping her students and audience connect the dots between the brain-gut connection, nutrition, and overall well-being.
Charmène’s mission is deeply rooted in her passion for holistic health. She mainly focuses on the brain-gut connection, digestive health, and its ties to autism, dementia, and diabetes. Her ability was instrumental in coauthoring the Step Program according to Glasser’s Theory and The Healthy Start Program for the Palmdale School District during her teaching tenure there. In 1982, she created the Mayo Clinic’s Physician Internship Rotation Program to help doctors understand the needs of students with learning disabilities, demonstrating her forward-thinking approach to education and health integration.
Even during her undergraduate years, Charmène significantly contributed by designing and implementing a children’s daycare center for the Whittier Street Health Clinic staff. Her commitment to education and community continued to grow, leading her to start the “Now, Chew On This” nonprofit. She also sponsors the Mama Vega Neema Educational Center in Kenya, a school named in her honor.
While her husband at the time was a student at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, Charmène created a gourmet club focusing on authentic international foods. As the only intern’s wife working, she understood early on the importance of food in fostering community and emotional connections, laying the foundation for her future work in nutrition and wellness.
Charmène is a proud member of Phi Lambda Theta and Phi Delta Kappa National Honor Societies and has been recognized by the Council for Exceptional Children for her outstanding contributions to special education. Her influence extends beyond the classroom, as she was invited to speak and cater for the United States State Department Subcommittee on Health and Wellness, highlighting her role as a leading voice in health advocacy.
Her work and dedication have earned her many accolades. Charmène has been featured in prominent media outlets like the Food Network and Woman’s Day magazine, sharing her insights and ability on nutrition and healthy living. Her contributions to education and health have earned her the prestigious President’s Lifetime Achievement Award and a nomination for the Athena Award. A lifelong learner and educator, Charmène also holds an honorary PhD in Humanities, recognizing her profound impact on education and health advocacy.
Charmène’s legacy is carried on through her two daughters and three grandchildren and her nonprofit organization, which focuses on improving children’s nutrition. As an ambassador for Blue Zones Project Bakersfield, CA, and a public relations expert for the Bakersfield Breakfast Rotary, she continues influencing and educating her community on the importance of health, nutrition, and empowerment.
In her latest try, Charmène revamps her mamavega.com website under the “Optimal Health 360.” This platform is designed to empower women through health, wellness, nutrition, and self-care, encouraging them to create their legacies of health and wellness. Her class, “Women Empowered: Women Empowerment,” has become a cornerstone of her work, offering valuable insights and tools for women to take charge of their health and lives.
As a former foreign exchange student to Norway who received many awards, Charmène Vega’s journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to helping others achieve optimal health and wellness. She embodies the spirit of empowerment, compassion, and strength, inspiring women everywhere to live their healthiest lives.
Charmène M. Vega, aka Mama Vega Holistic Health & Economic Empowerment for Women
